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Student-driven, inquiry-based learning gives
students the ability to develop an in-depthỗ
understanding of science content and develop key�
skills like communication, collaboration, problem
solving, and flexibility—skills that will serveⅧ
them throughout their educational andῺ�
professional lives.

As that fifth-grade science teacher, you are
eager to follow the new guidelines; you want
to engage and better prepare your students.
But, you don’t feel especially prepared yourself.
That’s where the Society comes into play.

For decades, as an informal education
institution, the Society has employed inquiry-
based, child-driven educational models to teach
science. Through our pioneering immersive
learn-through-play exhibits like Hamill Family
Play Zoo, a multitude of public education
offerings, and teacher professional development
programming, the Society has proven experience
developing and delivering science education that
works both for adults and children—educators
and learners, alike.

The Institute of Science Teaching Excellence
(ISTE) is the Society’s answer to helping teachers
adjust to the NGSS standards. With support from
ISTE, science educators are discovering new and
effective ways to teach, and are creating
classrooms where children are excited to learn
about science.

Teaching the Teacher

ISTE provides K-12 teachers with guidance to
teach inquiry-based science and to develop
classroom practices directed to higher-level science
engagement. Workshops and training sessions
prepare teachers with an emphasis on NGSS
principles and practices.

Marjorie Baker, manager of ISTE, helps teachers develop confidence and skills in using hands-on
learning in the classroom.

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